Saskatoon shows support for ‘Stand With Ukraine’ campaign

The #StandWithUkraine campaign has turned into a countrywide movement.

Roughly 100 people gathered in downtown Saskatoon on Sunday wearing blue and yellow to show their support for Ukraine.

Others who were unable to attend posted pictures and videos on social media uniting as one.

The same thing took place in more than 30 different cities across Canada on Sunday.

Iryna Matsuik, a volunteer with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, said there was a need to do something to show support.

“It’s very important to our community to stay united and voice our concerns as well as raise awareness of what’s happening in Ukraine,” Matsuik said.

Participants were encouraged to dress in blue and yellow and bring their Ukrainian, Canadian and Saskatchewan flags.

Members of the community walked down Spadina Crescent towards city hall as one group.

Matsuik said the majority of people who took part in the gathering are worried about loved ones back in Ukraine.

“It’s definitely very difficult for us,” she said. “My mom, my sister’s family, my cousins, uncles (and) aunts (are) there. It’s very scary for us, but we are trying to stay strong.”

Even though the future is uncertain, Matsuik said it means the world to her to see this movement spread across the country.

“You feel a moment of pride to be a Ukrainian-Canadian, to see the support and how many of us are in Canada just stay united regardless of our political views,” Matsuik said.

“This is something that is very close and dear to our hearts and our families. We feel very proud to be a part of this movement.”